Rochdale Football Club is delighted to announce that Joe Bunney has been shortlisted for the Sky Bet League One Player of the Month Award for October.
The forward turned full-back started in all six of Dale's league games during the month, as Keith Hill's side secured twelve points from an available 18 to move up the league table and occupy a spot just outside of the play-off places.
Sky Bet says: "Converted from a striker to left-back in an inspired move by Dale boss Keith Hill, Bunney demonstrated defensive instincts as his side kept four clean sheets and used his attacking nous going forward to claim two assists during the month."
Bolton Wanderer's Zach Clough, Walsall midfielder Erhun Oztumer and Sheffield United's Billy Sharp are also on the shortlist.
The winner will be announced on Friday 11th November. The judging panel comprises Sky Sports’ EFL expert Don Goodman; League Managers’ Association Director Olaf Dixon and Sky Bet Football Trading Manager Paul Lowery.
Congratulations, Joe!
The shortlist
Joe Bunney (Rochdale) – full-back
Converted from a striker to left-back in an inspired move by Dale boss Keith Hill, Bunney demonstrated defensive instincts as his side kept four clean sheets and used his attacking nous going forward to claim two assists during the month.
Zach Clough (Bolton Wanderers) – striker
Finally free of the niggling injures which have delayed his progression, he came to the fore in October, scoring five goals, half of his side’s total. Always eager to run at defenders, he is equally adept at shooting from range.
Erhun Oztumer (Walsall) – midfielder
The diminutive 25-year-old has become an instant favourite at Walsall with his link-up play and eye for the extraordinary. The ‘Turkish Messi’s’ four goals in five October games included two stunners in the 2-0 victory at Swindon.
Billy Sharp (Sheffield United) – striker
The goalscoring pivot of a United side which struck 13 goals. Sharp scored five in five games, demonstrating his range of finishing from close-in poaching to a 25-yard drive into the top corner, one of his pair against Shrewsbury.